When the Royal Jaipur and Western Australian polo teams battled it out over the Argyle Pink Diamond Cup, they did it in none other than the ‘Pink City’ itself.
Jaipur set the scene for the polo showdown that saw hundreds come out to watch the match, including Maharani Padmini Devi, the acting Australian high commissioner to India.
“We are delighted to be in Jaipur to present the inaugural Argyle Pink Diamond Cup, which is a reflection of the enduring relationship between Western Australia’s Argyle Diamond Mine and the Indian diamond industry,” said Nik Senapati, managing director of Rio Tinto India.
“This relationship has developed into a formidable competitive advantage that has led to significant employment opportunities in both countries.”
Maharaj Narendra Singh, head of the Jaipur royal family, led the Royal Jaipur team to victory, capturing the cup that was designed and manufactured by Indian designer and jewellery retailer, Nirav Modi.
Following the match, the royal family hosted an invitation-only dinner at its City Palace where heirloom pieces of Argyle pink diamond jewellery were showcased and worn by Australian Bollywood star, Pallavi Sharda.
“Diamonds are sacred to India and Argyle pink diamonds are symbolic to Australia, and so we are excited to be able to showcase Australia’s finest export in this quintessential Indian setting,” said Jean-Marc Lieberherr, chief commercial officer (CCO) for Rio Tinto Diamonds.
“This has also provided an opportunity to look back at the 30-year relationship we have enjoyed in India and look forward to the next few decades, as India continues on its trajectory to be the powerhouse of the global diamond industry.”
